Abstract [en]

Asymmetric hydrogenation of ortho-substituted pyridines catalyzed by N,P-ligated iridium is demonstrated. To facilitate this reaction, the aromaticity of the pyridines was weakened by forming N-iminopyridium ylides. The reactions give very high conversions, and after a single recrystallization, excellent ee of up to 98% was obtained. This method lends itself to the synthesis of chiral piperidine building blocks.